As the unofficial launch of summertime in the mountains, top barbecue chefs from around the state join local chefs in serving up mouth-watering barbecue complemented by microbrews at one of the largest Colorado microbrewery beer tastings.

The event also includes live music; highlights include Dan Treanor’s Afrosippi Band featuring Erica Brown, Too Slim and the Taildraggers, and John Nemeth who will perform live at scheduled times during the weekend.

Barbecue masters will compete for bragging rights and $10,000 in cash prizes.

Today a panel of professional judges will rate pork, beef and side dishes according to their appearance, taste and tenderness.

People’s choice award

This year, attendees will have the chance to text their vote today and Sunday to determine the People’s Choice winner for “Best Barbecue Vendor.” Selected winners will be crowned Saturday and Sunday at 4:10 p.m. on the main stage in Beaver Creek Plaza.

Kid zone and culinary demos

A kids zone will be open from noon to 4 p.m. today and Sunday, providing activities and arts and crafts designed for kids ages 12 and younger.

Today at noon, Beaver Creek’s signature Culinary Demonstration Series kicks off for the summer season; watch complimentary barbecue demonstrations from guest and local chefs.

The Blues, Brews & BBQ event offers free admission to the plaza and food and beverage are available for purchase. Ticketed events include the following:

Microbrew Festival

Enjoy one of the largest exclusively Colorado microbrewery beer tastings in the state from 1 to 5 p.m. today.

The event features more than 80 special concoctions from 35 Colorado-based breweries. Participants will also receive a commemorative tasting mug.

Advance tickets are $35 per person and will be $45 per person at the door. The event also will be held outdoors again this year on the back lawn, near the Centennial Express chair lift (#6).

Cut and Slice Golf Event benefiting Can do MS

Back for its second year, the Cut and Slice Golf event takes place on Monday at the Beaver Creek Golf Club from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A shotgun start opens the day and golfers also will enjoy barbecue and craft beers from Crazy Mountain Brewery and Breckenridge Brewery around the course.

Tickets are $100 per person, which includes greens fee, golf cart, practice balls, tee gift and barbecue and beer on the course.

Net proceeds from the event will be donated to Can Do Multiple Sclerosis’ lifestyle empowerment programs for people living with MS and their support partners.

Reservations can be made by calling the Beaver Creek Golf Club at 970-754-6212, emailing dlopez@ vailresorts.com or you can purchase your tickets online at http://www.beaver creek.com.